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Many patients state that their single biggest concern with going to the dentist is the placement ofcrowns.

Part of this concern has been linked to the number of times that you must visit a dentist’s office and the overall time that you are required to be in the dental chair. While this can be an uncomfortable and time-consuming process, there is now an easier way to reclaim your dental health.

Single-visit crowns are a fast and efficient way to get the crowns that you need. It’s easier to schedule a single appointment and receive the same quality of dental work that you previously expected.

Crowns 101

A dental crown is a restorative process in which a tooth or tooth implant is completely covered or capped by a special material that looks like your natural tooth.

This helps to protect the underlying tooth and provide a chewing surface that functions as a normal tooth.

Crowns are also aesthetically pleasing because patients generally don’t notice a difference between their crown and their natural tooth.

While crowns used to require multiple visits to the dentist to ensure proper placement, new technology has now allowed for crowns to be fitted in a single visit.

When a Crown is Needed

While your dentist will let you know the specifics of needing a crown, there are some general conditions in which a crown might be the best option. These are:

Missing or misshapen teeth

Discolored teeth

A tooth that has had a root canal

Large broken fillings

Chipped, cracked or broken teeth

Decayed teeth

If you have any of these conditions, you may want to talk to your dentist to see if crowns are an option for you.

If they are, you should also inquire about the process of installing the crown and see if your dentist has the appropriate skills and technology to complete a single-visit crown.

Advantages of Single-visit Crowns

Traditionally, crowns take a minimum of two appointments to complete. Some patients have even required more than those two visits.

Single-visit crowns save time by allowing your dentist to complete the entire process in a single visit with no subsequent appointments.

This also reduces the time it requires for you to travel to the office, schedule appointments, and reduces the potential for additional recovery time.

Single-visit crowns are also designed, milled, and installed on the same day. This allows your dentist to become familiar with your case a single time and work through the process quickly and efficiently.

Completing this process in a single day also reduces the time and cost required with shipping a crown to another location to be milled by a third party.

Nothing quite strikes fear into the heart of dental patients like the words ‘root canal treatment’. When the blood or nerve supply of a tooth (often known as the ‘pulp’) becomes damaged through injury, infected or decayed, it can cause the nerve of the tooth to die. Year ago this would have meant a certain need to remove the tooth before the whole area became infected. However, thanks to root canal treatment it is now possible to save teeththat are at risk from damaged pulp.

What would happen if I didn’t have root canal treatment?

Infections spread fast and this is particularly true in our mouths which are moist and warm and a perfect breeding ground for bacteria to spread. An infection that starts in the pulp can quickly spread through the root canal system, and if left untreated could grow to form an abscess. If this happens then bacteria-filled pus will collect under the gums, causing them to swell and become hot and potentially extremely painful. At this point your dentist will need to prescribe you with a course of oral antibiotic and it may be necessary to remove the tooth altogether.

The key aim of root canal treatment is to remove all of the infection from the root canal and save the original tooth.

Is root canal treatment really as painful as people say it is?

When you consider that fear of the dentist is an almost universal phenomenon, it is unsurprising that tales of dental treatment are often embellished beyond recognition. In fact, root canal should be no more painful than having an ordinary filling done.

What happens during root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is quite a complex process and will normally require two or occasionally three visits to your dentist.

Restoration treatment is usually recommended by your dentist if you have missing teeth, or if specific parts of your natural teeth are missing and require repair.

Examples of this include tooth structure that is missing due to:

fracture or damage

the deterioration of an existing repair

decay

Types of Restoration Treatment

Restorations can take a variety of different forms, and the type that your dentist will suggest will vary depending on the extend of the restoration required. However, they can include the following:

Fillings

Fillings are the most commonly used variety of dental restoration and are also the simplest. Created from gold, silver amalgam or tooth-colored composite resin, fillings can be put into your tooth in just one visit to your dentist’s office.

Crowns

Crowns are also a very popular variety of restoration. They take the form of a tooth-shaped cap, that are designed and colored to match as closely as possible to your existing teeth. Crowns can sit over an implant to take the place of a missing tooth, or to hold a bridge in place, and they restore the strength, appearance, shape and size of your teeth so well that they are virtually imperceptible once in place.

Implants

Dental implants are becoming increasingly popular as they are an extremely robust solution to missing, damaged or unsightly teeth. They are made up of three parts – a titanium screw or post that is inserted into your jaw bone, a crown that acts as a replacement tooth, and an abutment that holds them both together.

Implants are permanent, and once they are in place, you will be able to eat, drink and talk without any impact on your day to day life.

At your next dental appointment, you may find that your dentist suggests that you undergo an inlay or an onlay.

It’s important to understand what these procedures include before agreeing to move forward with the procedure.

Traditional inlays were used instead of fillings to replace a small amount of tooth loss that was due to decay.

Onlays are similar, but instead of just fitting inside of the tooth, they also cover the chewing surface.

Onlays are typically used on the back teeth and will cover one or more of the cusps of the tooth.

Inlays

Inlays were initially made of gold and looked like fillings. Today, medical advances have allowed for inlays to be made of substances that more closely mirror the appearance and function of the tooth.Inlays may be made of ceramic, porcelain or a type of dental composite.

If you’ve had previous fillings that are failing or that appear unsightly, your dentist can replace or repair them with a modern inlay.This will improve the function and appearance of the filling.

Onlays

Onlays also fit inside of the tooth but also cover one or more cusp of the chewing surface.

These types of fillings are typically used on the molar teeth. Like inlays, onlays were previously made of the same material as fillings, gold.

New developments have allowed for ceramic or porcelain onlays that more closely match the original tooth color.

These material types also allow for bonding of the material to the tooth.

Recent research suggests that these onlays and their bonds strengthen and improve the tooth.

Knowing When to Use Inlays or Onlays

It’s tough for a patient to understand all the details that make an inlay or onlay the best option to use.

While your dentist will typically consider their use, you may also raise the question about them if your dentist is considering a crown or cap.

All these treatments have specific benefits and drawbacks, so you should make sure to clarify any questions with your dentist before agreeing to a particular treatment.

The Process

Inlays and onlays are like crowns. However, they require less removal or altering of your existing tooth structure.

For this reason, they may be preferred for many patients over a crown.

Once the tooth has been adequately prepared, and all the tooth decay and debris have been removed, an impression of the tooth is made.

This impression can be made digitally or with a putty like material that will create a physical cast of your tooth.

This impression is then sent to a laboratory where they create a model of your tooth. The final restoration is created in the lab and is designed to perfectly fit your tooth.

If you have opted for a color-treated inlay, it should also match your existing tooth color.

We all know that a first impression is often the lasting impression. Many people are incredibly self-conscious about their smile. This can be due to discolored, missing, or damaged teeth. In order to correct this problem, many patients are opting to visit with their dentists to find out more about the process of full mouth reconstruction.

Full mouth reconstruction is the process of making sure that you can feel confident with your smile and your overall dental health. The reconstruction process can include many different procedures but will be tailored to your individual needs.

Many of the processes that your dentist use is designed to replace or repair the upper and lower teeth. This can also include implants, partial dentures, bridges, fillings, whitening, and straightening.

Your Dental Health

The single most important factor in maintaining a healthy set of teeth is regular brushing and flossing. Additional care is taken when you visit your dentist for your routine checkups and cleanings. While these processes can help many patients improve or maintain their dental health, it simply isn’t enough for other patients.

When teeth are crooked, damaged, or unevenly spaced, it can cause problems. Routine dental care may not be able to adequately clean teeth or surfaces that are damaged, and tooth decay can continue and worsen over time. This is due to abnormal tooth angles that are more difficult to reach or clean.

Benefits of Full Mouth Reconstruction

While many dentists may opt to fix the problems as they exist, a full mouth reconstruction can offer improved morale and quality of life for many patients. A straight and healthy smile often gives patients improved self-value, and they feel more comfortable in public settings.

Completing full mouth reconstruction doesn’t just fix the problems as they are but ensures that your dental health is prioritized. After your procedure is completed, you can feel confident that your mouth is healthy and easier to maintain than before. Many patients also become pain-free and can eat and drink the foods that they once enjoyed.

As teeth decay, they can also affect the bone growth in the jawline. Full mouth reconstruction and dental implants help to stop bone loss and maintain existing bone. Implants can also help support the jaw which can add additional strength to your current jawline. Replacing lost teeth has also been shown to help with bone growth and regeneration. This is an integral part of the dental implant process.

Full mouth reconstruction doesn’t just offer a replacement. In the case of damaged teeth, many can be restored with fillings and whitening treatments to restore and match teeth to each other. Your dentist will likely do everything that they can to save your existing teeth before they opt for extraction and replacement.

Gum disease is another facet that your dentist may explore. Full mouth restoration can also offer help with periodontal or laser therapies. These treatments help to replace and restore gums and the underlying bone.

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are a very common and popular solution to damaged or unsightly teeth. They take the form of a tooth-shaped ‘hat’ that sits over the problem tooth, encasing it entirely right down to the gum line. Crowns are an ideal way to restore the strength, shape, size and overall appearance of any damaged teeth.

What are dental crowns made of?

Crowns can be made from a variety of different materials including metal, porcelain fused to metal and 100% porcelain/ceramic. This means that there is usually at least one type of crown that is suitable for every patient.

Why has my dentist recommended a crown?

Crowns are usually only given to adult patients. Your dentist may recommend a crown as the best course of action if:

You have a broken or severely worn down tooth.

You have a cracked tooth that needs to be held together.

If you have a severely weak tooth that is at risk of breaking.

If you are also having a dental bridge,as crowns can help hold them in place.

If you have a tooth that requires a larger filling than is possible (usually due to broken/eroded parts of the tooth).To cover a dental implant.

If you have a discoloured tooth.

If your tooth is severely misshapen.

Occasionally a dentist may recommend a crown for infant/first teeth. This is usually because:

The child has a first tooth that is decayed beyond the treatment of a normal filling and a crown is the best option to protect it.

The child is, for whatever reason, unable to complete or withstand proper oral care techniques, putting them at a much higher risk of tooth decay and its associated problems.

Dentures are often a difficult topic for people to discuss. It can be embarrassing for many patients to be able to talk with friends and family about their dental health. For these reasons, dentures may also be surrounded in your mind with a negative stigma.

However, dentures are a natural part of many people’s lives, and when you are empowered with the right knowledge, you can feel confident that you are making the best decisions for your dental health.

Dentures also tend to increase a person’s quality of life through an improved appearance, reduced or eliminated pain, and the restored ability to eat the foods that they enjoy.

While getting dentures can be a huge benefit for many patients, there are some things that may limit the success of dentures. Here are a couple of things to know.

Gum Shrinkage

When we no longer have teeth that protrude from our gums, the only bone that is left is the actual jawline.

Dentures need to sit along the bony ridges that used to hold the teeth. When tooth decay or tooth loss occurs, the process of resorption often occurs. Resorption is the wasting or atrophy of bone that leads to a reduction in the actual bone. This shrinkage is the primary reason that dentures don’t fit properly.

Lower Ridge Shapes

Smooth gum ridges are ideal for a proper denture fit. However, those ridges can often degrade, and the shape can change. Completely flat or small v-shaped ridges make it more difficult to achieve a good denture fit. Additionally, extremely bony gums can cause soreness, while fleshy gums can cause excess denture movement.

Palate Shapes

The suction of upper dentures to your gums can be influenced by the shape of your palate. Square or rounded shapes are more ideal than flat or v-shaped. Some extremes in the palate may also cause additional issues or discomfort.

Potential Lower Denture Problems The lower dentures are subjected to a lot more movement. This movement is due to the mobile nature of the jaw and where the tongue, lips, and cheeks tend to dislodge dentures.

In addition, the lower ridge that attaches to the denture is up to four times smaller than the upper ridge allowing less ability for the dentures to adhere and seal to the gums.

In order to successfully wear lower dentures, many patients must change some of their habitual tendencies. Many people place their tongue against or under dental appliances on the lower jaw.

If the tongue is pressed against or under the denture, it can easily dislodge it, and it will need to be replaced in the mouth. Reducing the amount of movement around the lower denture is critical to keeping it in place throughout the day.

There are many different treatments available for badly damaged or decayed teeth, but unfortunately sometimes a tooth is beyond repair, leaving an unsightly gap in your smile. Gaps between your teeth can seriously knock your confidence, and can even have a negative impact on the functionality of your other teeth and the overall use of your mouth. This is due to the fact that after time, your remaining teeth can take advantage of the space to shift around slightly, causing misalignment and a range of other associated dental problems.

Dental bridges fill the gap where the missing tooth would have been. They do this using a false tooth, which looks and feels just like the real thing.

The false tooth also holds the remaining teeth either side in place so that they don’t shift into the space.

How to dental bridges work?

Dental bridges are comprised of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap. These act as anchors for the false tooth/teeth that will fill the gap.

Once your dental bridge is in place, it should be virtually imperceptible.

The anchored teeth are often referred to as abutment teeth and the false teeth are often called pontics.

What are the false teeth made from? Will they look odd?

The pontics can be made from a number of different materials including metal alloys, gold or porcelain, depending on what cosmetic finish you want to achieve. If you choose porcelain, they can be color-matched to your existing teeth so that they look completely natural.

If you’ve recently had a dental procedure, you may have received a sealant. The process is so quick and easy that many patients don’t know much about it. Sealants are thin plastic coatings that are painted onto the surface of the tooth. This process is usually used on the flatter back teeth like the molars and premolars. Sealants help to reduce tooth decay and protect the underlying tooth.

Once sealants are placed, they quickly bond with the surface of the tooth. This plastic coating helps to protect the enamel that covers the tooth on the chewing and grinding surfaces. Sealants are used on the back teeth to help protect a buildup of bacteria between the cusps of the teeth.

While brushing and flossing are effective at removing most food and sugar particles, the rear teeth contain many places that allow for buildup. Sealants help to protect these vulnerable points by “sealing” the tooth from allowing this buildup ever to touch our enamel.

Who Needs Sealants?

While sealants are rather easy to place, they aren’t for every patient. Typically, dentists will place sealants on children and teenagers when they first get their premolars and molars. This helps to protect their teeth through a person’s more cavity-prone years. However, dentists may also put sealants onto adult’s mouths when they have tooth decay or fillings in their molars.

In some cases, a dentist may also place sealants onto a patient’s baby teeth. This is to help keep those teeth healthy and aid in the proper development of their adult teeth. Baby teeth are important to hold spacing for subsequent adult teeth, and early baby tooth loss may account for additional spacing or alignment when the adult teeth erupt.

How Sealants are Placed

The process of placing sealants is a relatively fast and completely pain-free. However, proper sealant placement requires that a few steps are followed to ensure that they properly adhere to the teeth and don’t seal in any bacteria underneath them.

Thorough cleaning – The teeth that are going to be sealed should be thoroughly cleaned first. This ensures that there are no cavity-causing bacteria that will be allowed underneath the sealant and provides a goodsurface for the sealant to adhere.

Dry the tooth – If the tooth is wet, it may not allow the sealant to adhere to the tooth properly. Each tooth will be dried, and cotton or another material will be placed around the tooth to keepit moisture free.

Roughing the surface – The smooth surface of your tooth doesn’t allow the sealant a good surface to adhere to, so an acid solution is placed on the tooth which will give your tooth a rougher texture and more surface area. This allows the sealant to cling to the tooth properly.

Rinse and dry – The tooth is then rinsed and dried to clear the acid solution.

Paint the tooth – Sealant is then brushed onto the tooth enamel. The sealant then bonds to the tooth. Sometimes a special light will be used to cure the sealant and further harden the protective coating.

While we often think of bones as rigid and unchanging dense materials in our body, the fact is that they are continually changing. Bones always undergo the process of remodeling, where old bone is replaced by new stronger bone. New bone cells are deposited while the old bone cells are recycled. Sometimes, this process can result in damage or weakening of the bones. This is especially true for the bones that hold our teeth in place. As we enter adulthood or encounter sickness and disease, tooth loss can also be accompanied by the process of resorption. This is when the surrounding bone starts to be resorbed back into the body. As we lose more teeth and bone structure surrounding the teeth, facial features may begin to sag. Modern medicine has been able to help restore this bone loss through bone grafting. This builds bone and can restore tooth strength and your appearance. While bone grafting may sound like a significant surgical procedure, it can be performed in most dentist’s offices. A small incision is made in the gums, and the grafting material is added through the incision to the bones. The grafting material is composed of minerals that trigger your body to grow new bone. Over time, your body will deposit and build bone by itself. The grafting material comes in a variety of different forms. It can come as a powder, granules, or a gel that can be inserted through a syringe. This material comes from an animal, human, or even yourself. A laboratory processes this material to ensure that it is clean and sterile. Once the bone graft has been placed, it is usually covered with a thin membrane that acts as a framework for the new bone to be deposited upon.

Bone Graft Uses

Bone grafts are used in a variety of dental applications. These include:

Teeth Saving – Periodontal disease accounts for a large portion of lost teeth in dental patients. As the underlying bone weakens and teeth become loose, your dentist may suggest a bone graft to try to save and strengthen the teeth.

After Tooth Extraction – Once an adult tooth is removed, it leaves an empty socket. Bone grafts can help to fill in this space and strengthen the jaw. Bone grafts also help to reduce the possibility of the body beginning to resorb the surrounding bone.

Dental Implants – When a dental implant is placed, a small titanium post is placed into the jawbone. If the underlying bone is already weak, then it may make this placement difficult. A bone graft can help to strengthen the jawbone and allow for secure placement of the post and the associated implant.

Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps to strengthen teeth and protect them from cavities caused by dental decay. Dental decay happens when the sugars in the food and drink we consume interact with the bacteria in the mouth and produce a sticky film on the teeth called plaque, and plaque acids. If plaque and these acids are not removed from our teeth promptly, they can start to cause damage to them. Plaque acids will eventually erode the outermost layer of the tooth, exposing the softer, inner sections which are more sensitive and will cause you to experience pain. If decay is left untreated, eventually it can penetrate the innermost part of the tooth known as the pulp. This is where the roots are located and if they become affected by decay, they will be unable to deliver blood and nutrients to the tooth to keep it healthy. The tooth may die and fall out or require extraction.

Studies have shown that fluoride treatment is highly effective at providing additional protection against tooth decay provided it is applied at least twice a year. For this reason, many dentists are now offering fluoride treatment alongside your regular, six-monthly dental check-ups. It is especially recommended for those patients who are at higher risk of developing cavities.

Am I at increased risk of cavities?

There are various groups of people who are more likely to suffer from dental cavities and would significantly benefit from fluoride treatment. These include people:

Many patients may have heard of a deep cleaning and consider that to be the work that their hygienist performs every six months. However, those routine cleanings are not the same as a deep cleaning. Deep cleanings are generally conducted when patients are missing their regular cleanings. These procedures are specifically conducted in order to correct periodontal or gum disease.

When You Need Deep Cleaning

When you go to the dentist, your hygienist will use a probe in order to assess the number of bacteria or buildup on or around the teeth. The depth of the gum tissue that lies between the teeth is called pocketing if there are more than 5 millimeters between the gums and teeth. This can be a concern because pocketing can be an area that harbors bacteria that can harm your teeth and deteriorate the enamel.

In the case that your hygienist measures pockets that are 5 millimeters or greater, it is likely that your dentist will suggest that you receive a deep cleaning. This deep cleaning involves scaling and root planning and is typically arranged in a separate appointment.

The Process

Deep cleaning is a straightforward service. You will typically schedule an appointment with your hygienist. The appointment time will vary depending on the level of work that needs to be performed.

Deep cleaning involves two processes — scaling and root planing.

Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the tooth and from within the pockets between your teeth and gums. Your hygienist will use a small tool or electriceor ultrasonic instruments to scrape away any buildup on the tooth and remove it with a rinse or flossing.

After the scaling has been completed, your hygienist will complete root planing. Root planing involves the same tool types as scaling but focuses on the root of the tooth. By ensuring that the root is clean and free of debris or buildup, it allows the gums to naturally heal back over the roots and eliminate or reduce the pocket size.

Deep cleaning typically involves at least two appointments. Your dental office may schedule additional appointments if you require more work, or as follow-up appointments to ensure that your mouth ishealing, and the pocket size is getting smaller.

Tooth decay is the single most common dental problem affecting Americans today. You may hear your dentist refer to ‘dental caries’ or ‘dental cavities’, but all of these terms mean that you have at least one tooth being affected by tooth decay. Tooth decay is a leading cause of dental pain and also the most noted reason for patients to visit their dentist for advice and support.

What is tooth decay?

Tooth decay is the destruction of the outermost layer of your teeth, known as the enamel, by a substance known as plaque acid. Plaque acids are created when bacteria within the plaque break down sugars in your mouth that are there as a result of eating and drinking. Enamel is usually very resilient, but if it is persistently attacked by plaque acids, it softens and eventually holes form. These holes are known as cavities or caries and must be treated promptly after they form. Failure to do so can cause the decay to spread to surrounding teeth as well as penetrating even deeper into the original tooth, causing sensitivity and discomfort.

Eventually, if decay is allowed to reach the root of the tooth then you will almost certainly experience toothache, with many people suffering acute pain when they eat or drink. The root, which serves the tooth with the healthy blood vessels and nutrients, can become infected and the tooth will die.

Abscess formation is the final stage of tooth decay and by far the most painful. Once the bacteria passes into the root, it can put the conjoining bones at risk of infection too. This increases the likelihood of you losing the tooth and suffering from other diseases as the infection passes into the bloodstream and around your body.

Causes of tooth decay

There are a variety of different things that contribute towards the development of tooth decay. However, ultimately there is one key factor that determines whether someone is more likely to suffer from tooth decay and that is their commitment to oral hygiene.

Brushing and flossing your teeth is the single, most important thing that you can do protect your teeth from decay, and failure to do this properly on a daily basis will mean that the plaque acids are not removed before they cause damage to your teeth. Flossing and using fluoride mouthwash also helps to remove bacteria and keep your teeth in great condition.

It can be difficult to find basic information on what you should be doing for your teeth. Many advertisers have saturated the market trying to prove why their product is the best or only option for your teeth. However, dental care doesn’t have to be that difficult. In order to help keep you on the right track for your dental health and away from chasing the newest and unproven fads, we’ve compiled a list of tried and true methods for your home oral care.

Brush Your Teeth

This is probably the single most common piece of advice. For every age and any condition, dentists recommend that you brush your teeth twice a day. Teeth should be brushed with toothpaste that includes fluoride for anybody that understands not to swallow the toothpaste. You should brush for two minutes each time. Many electric toothbrushes have automatic timers that run for two minutes, or you can use a simple kitchen timer to track your progress.

Use Fluoride

Many municipal water supplies have fluoride added as a treatment to their water. While this helps to protect your teeth, you should also use fluoride toothpaste. If you believe that you still aren’t getting enough protection, you can talk to your dentist about prescription fluoride options. You also get fluoride treatments when you visit your dentist for your regularly scheduled cleanings and checkups.

Clean Between the Teeth

While flossing is the most common type of interdental cleaning method, you can also use a variety of products that are out on the market. The goal is to be able to remove food debris and sugars from the spaces that brushing can’t get to.

Eat Healthy

Being considerate of your diet helps your general health in many ways beyond your teeth. However, dentists see a correlation between your diet and your dental health. You should try to limit your intake of sugars and sugary drinks. Sugars attract bacteria that can cause damage and weaken the enamel of your teeth. When this enamel is worn down, cavities are more likely to appear in your teeth.

Get Your Checkups

Dentists recommend that you see them twice a year. This allows them to regularly monitor your teeth and catch any issues before they become significant. Regular visits to your dentist also help to remove plaque and tartar buildup before it becomes a major issue.

For people who have concerns or fears of the dentist, there are other options out there to help make your experience more pleasant. Talk to your dentist and be open about your feelings.

Use Mouthwash

While this isn’t necessary for every patient, it can help people who have an increased risk of gum disease. Look for mouthwashes and even toothpastes that have antimicrobial properties. Utilizing products that help to kill bacteria can help reduce the damage to the enamel of your teeth and keep you cavity free.

Additionally, if you have an increased risk of caries, there are many types of mouthwash that also contain fluoride. These treatments give you one more weapon in your arsenal to fight against poor dental health.

Gum disease is an exceedingly common oral health problem and is estimated to affect more than half of the U.S. population. Unfortunately, it is also very easy to ignore in the earliest stages of the condition and this means that it is often fairly advanced by the time it is diagnosed. This means that irreversible damage to your oral health may have already occurred.

While gum disease may be unpleasant and have significant consequences for your teeth and even your life, the good news is there it can be treated, and even prevented entirely.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is an inflammatory oral condition that is caused by the invasion of bacteria-laden plaque into the soft tissue of the gums. When this happens, the gums become sore and swollen and may start to bleed when you brush your teeth. At this stage it is often known as gingivitis, but since the symptoms are fairly mild, they can be easily overlooked and ignored. However, if treatment isn’t sought fairly promptly, the condition can progress and become much more severe.

Symptoms of gum disease

There are many different symptoms of gum disease and these tend to worsen as the condition worsens. Some of the signs that you should look out for include:

Dental implants are the latest method of replacing teeth that are missing or require extraction. They are made of three key components – an anchor, which looks like a screw, that is inserted into the jawbone, a crown that acts as a replacement tooth, and an abutment that secures the two together.

How does the anchor stay in place?

The anchor is made of titanium, which is extremely tough and durable. Once the implant is inserted into your jaw, a process called osseointegration takes place. This is where the bone that surrounds the implant begins to fuse it, strengthening it even further. It is not until this has happened that the replacement tooth will be fitted, but once in place, your new implant will be as secure as a regular tooth.

Will my implant be noticeable?

One of the biggest reasons that people choose implants is for their subtlety. The visible part of your implant – the replacement tooth – will be color-matched so that it is the same as your existing teeth. It is also a permanent fixture, so there is no need for unsightly denture removal and you can eat and drink as normal. Both of these mean that no one need know you have a dental implant unless you tell them.

How successful is the procedure?

Dental implants have the highest success rate of any implanted surgical device at around 98%. However, a robust oral hygiene routine is crucial to ensuring their results for the long-term.

There are many different treatments available for badly damaged or decayed teeth, but unfortunately sometimes a tooth is beyond repair, leaving an unsightly gap in your smile. Gaps between your teeth can seriously knock your confidence, and can even have a negative impact on the functionality of your other teeth and the overall use of your mouth. This is due to the fact that after time, your remaining teeth can take advantage of the space to shift around slightly, causing misalignment and a range of other associated dental problems.

Dental bridges fill the gap where the missing tooth would have been. They do this using a false tooth, which looks and feels just like the real thing. The false tooth also holds the remaining teeth either side in place so that they don’t shift into the space.

How to dental bridges work?

Dental bridges are comprised of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap. These act as anchors for the false tooth/teeth that will fill the gap. Once your dental bridge is in place, it should be virtually imperceptible. The anchored teeth are often referred to as abutment teeth and the false teeth are often called pontics.

What are the false teeth made from? Will they look odd?

The pontics can be made from a number of different materials including metal alloys, gold or porcelain, depending on what cosmetic finish you want to achieve. If you choose porcelain, they can be color-matched to your existing teeth so that they look completely natural.

What are the benefits of dental bridges?

There are a number of benefits of having dental bridge. They can:

Prevent your remaining teeth from shifting position.

Help you bite and/or chew properly.

Correct your bite.

Properly align your jaw.

Maintain the shape of your face.

Give you a great smile.

Types of dental bridge

There are three main varieties of dental bridge, and the type your dentist recommends will vary depending on where in your mouth the missing teeth are located.

Traditional bridges

A traditional bridge is the most commonly recommended treatment for missing teeth. It involves creating crowns to go on the teeth either side of the gap which act as anchors for the pontic which sits in-between them. Traditional bridges are usually made from porcelain that has been fused to ceramic or metal.

Resin bonded bridges

Also sometimes referred to as a Maryland bonded bridge, this type of bridge can be created in a variety of material including porcelain fused to metal, complete porcelain or sometimes plastic teeth and gums that are supported by a porcelain or metal framework. The wings found on each side of the bridge, usually made from metal or porcelain, are securely bonded to your natural teeth.

Cantilever bridges

Cantilever bridges are used when there are only existing teeth that can be used as anchors on one side of the gap. In the past there have been problems with cantilever bridges being used in the back of the mouth as they were found to exert too much pressure on the anchor tooth, causing damage and even breakages.

Wisdom teeth are usually the very last teeth to appear and while they usually arrive between the ages of 17 and 25, many people still have problems with them pushing through years later. Although adults can have up to 32 teeth, we rarely manage to fit more than 28 in at any one time, so if your mouth is already full when your wisdom teeth start cutting then you could be in for a bit of trouble.

Wisdom teeth are situated at the very back of the teeth. If you have space for them to come through normally then you shouldn’t experience any problems other than mild discomfort when they actually cut. However, if there is limited space for them then this could mean that they come through at an unnatural angle, which could damage other teeth and cause you pain.

When this happens your dentist will refer to it as an ‘impacted wisdom tooth’ and will likely recommend surgical intervention. Your dentist will probably also take some x-rays of your wisdom teeth in order to assess them as they are coming through to help decide if intervention will be necessary.

Wisdom teeth problems

Teething isn’t fun for adults either. Wisdom teeth are large and cutting them may be a painful experience. They don’t necessarily all cut at once either. Wisdom teeth are made up of four sections and many people find that they cut one corner at a time. This is called pericoronitis. When the wisdom tooth comes through in this way, the gum surrounding the tooth often gets swollen and sore, causing mild to moderate pain.

The gum edges are also susceptible to infection as tiny particles of food and bacteria can collect there, even when the area is thoroughly cleaned several times a day. Round head toothbrushes and antiseptic mouthwash can help prevent this from happening, but if your wisdom tooth does get infected you will require a course of antibiotics to completely clear the pain and infection.

If you suffer from recurrent wisdom tooth infections, or your wisdom teeth are proving particularly difficult to get through, your dentist may recommend surgical intervention to remove the wisdom teeth altogether.

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. This joint acts as a sliding hinge that connects your jaw to your skull.

While everybody has a temporomandibular joint, when somebody says that they have TMJ, they are generally referring to a disorder of that joint. This disorder is commonly called “lockjaw.”

A disorder in the TMJ is often associated with pain or discomfort. It may be difficult for your doctor or dentist to identify the exact cause of your pain. There are several potential culprits.

Arthritis

Genetics

Jaw injury

Teeth grinding or clenching

Fortunately, most cases of TMJ can be treated without invasive procedures or operations. TMJ is oftentemporary.

Symptoms

TMJ is associated with several symptoms. Patients may experience just a few of these symptoms, and no case is typical.

Jaw pain or tenderness

Pain in one or both temporomandibular joints

Aching facial pain

Locking of the joint that makes it difficult to open orclose your mouth

Aching pain near the ear

Difficulty chewing

Popping or grating when chewing or moving your jaw

When You Need a Dentist

While TMJ is generally temporary and there are many possible solutions, you should consider seeing your dentist if your pain is persistent or you are unable to open or close your jaw completely. Your dentist will be educated on the causes, and possible treatments of TMJ and will help to guide you on the right path.

TMJ Causes

Your temporomandibular joint is a sliding hinge between your jaw and skull. In the middle of that joint is a small disk that helps to absorb shocks to the jaw. TMJ can develop into a disorder if:

The disk is damaged or deteriorates

The disk moves out of alignment

The joint is damaged by injury or arthritis

While these causes are straightforward, there are several other options which will need to be explored by a medical professional. Proper identification of the cause of your condition helps to make sure that you receive the appropriate care and treatment.

We often think of sleep apnea as an annoying condition that doesn’t allow people to get a full night’s rest. However, sleep apnea can be a very dangerous condition if it is left untreated.

The treatment can often seem just as scary for some people, a loud and bulky machine that is strapped to your face while you sleep.

Fortunately, there are many other options that may be able to help with your sleep apnea and help you get quality sleep again.

What is it?

Sleep apnea is a medical condition that causes people to stop breathing during sleep. The periods where there is no breathing can vary in length and frequency. There are two types of sleep apnea.

Obstructive sleep apnea – This condition is caused by something that completely or partially blocks your airway. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of sleep apnea.

Central sleep apnea – This is caused by the failure of the brain to send the proper signals to your respiratory system to breathe.

What are the Causes?

Obstructive sleep apnea is generally the result of soft tissues collapsing and blocking the airway.

This is usually caused by muscle relaxation but can be exacerbated by individuals with excess weight.

Airways can also become obstructed due to swelling, misalignment of the mouth or upper airway, alcohol use, or allergies.

What are the Effects?

When the airway becomes blocked, it causes people to wake up for at least enough time to start breathing again.

These periods are often not remembered by the patient in the morning, but they have serious effects on your ability to rest.

In addition to a lack of proper rest, untreated sleep apnea can lead to:

Heart attacks

Stroke

High blood pressure

Acid reflux

Heart disease

Diabetes

Erectile dysfunction

Diagnosis

Fortunately, the diagnosis of sleep apnea is a relatively straightforward process. Some dental offices offer an in-office test to study the collapsibility of the airway while you are awake.

Depending on the results of that test, you may be scheduled to conduct a sleep study. Sleep studies are often conducted at home and require you to wear a small medical device that tracks your rest and breathing. The following day, you return the device to your medical office to interpret the results.

If these tests indicate that you have sleep apnea, your medical provider will discuss your treatment options. There are several available options that may be right for you.

Around 40 million Americans are currently experiencing tooth sensitivity, and most of us will have at least one episode of sensitive teeth during our lifetime.

Unfortunately, sensitive teeth can cause significant problems, often triggering dull or sharp pain when you eat, drink or even brush your teeth. You may even find that sucking cold hair into your mouth makes your teeth hurt. Sometimes this pain dissipates as quickly as it starts, and sometimes it can last for several hours.

Although tooth sensitivity is unpleasant, it is important to check with your dentist that there isn’t an underlying problem causing your pain. Decay and damage to your teeth can also trigger discomfort that is very similar in nature to tooth sensitivity, but these are problems that need to be addressed fairly quickly to prevent further complications from occurring.

What causes sensitive teeth?

There are a variety of different things that can cause sensitive teeth. In addition to dental decay that has been left untreated, some of the mostcommon include:

Worn tooth enamel, caused by aggressive brushing and using a hard- bristled toothbrush.

Tooth erosion as a result of high levels of consumption of acidic foods and drinks.

Leaking fillings and cracks in your teeth that expose the softer and more sensitive inner layers.

Gum recession that has left some of the root of your tooth exposed.

Grinding your teeth at night. In some instances, sensitivity might also arise as a side effect of dental

treatment you have recently had. This is particularly common in people who have had teeth whitening, dental crowns and cavity fillings.

Treatment for sensitive teeth

Fortunately, you don’t have to live with the discomfort of sensitive teeth forever. Firstly, you should visit your dentist, just to check that there isn’t a more sinister reason for your tooth pain. If there is no obviously underlying cause, there are a few things that you can do to help alleviate your tooth sensitivity.

Parenting has many responsibilities, with one of the most important being teaching your child how to care for himself. One important aspect of that care is the importance and practice of looking after his teeth. Dental health is something that is often taken for granted, but setting up your child with a robust oral hygiene routine and an understanding of the benefits of taking care of his teeth will make him more likely to enjoy better dental health in the future.

This is essential if he is to retain an attractive, functional smile. It is also important for his general health since poor oral hygiene and dental problems have been proven to be a contributing factor in the development of a number of medical conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and even cancer.

Pediatric dentistry services, offered by your dentist, are invaluable in helping to keep your child’s teeth in the best possible health and condition. Here is what you need to know about pediatric dentistry and what it can do you for your little people.

When should I start taking my child to the dentist?

The exact age at which a child will cut their first tooth can vary widely. In most cases, the infant teeth begin to erupt between 4 and 6 months of age. However, it is not unheard of for a baby to be over a year old before their teeth begin to appear. In very rare cases, babies have even been born with their first tooth already cut! Most dentists that offer pediatric services will recommend that you start taking your child to the dentist as soon as they cut their first tooth. Obviously, the initial visits will involve just a brief look into your infant’s mouth to check that the teeth look healthy and in the right position.

However, by the time your child is two years old he should be able to sit in the chair for a dental examination.

Many children who are fearful of the dentist have developed their anxiety as a result of a phobia passed down from their parents, or because the environment and process is unfamiliar. Therefore, the sooner you get your little one used to visiting the dentist, the less frightened they are likely to be and this can make every appointment much easier and more pleasant for everyone involved.

Many people find that they wake up in the mornings with a sore or aching jaw. Many times, this is caused by a condition called bruxism. Some estimates are that 10-15% of people suffer from this condition.

While an aching jaw may sound like a minor issue, it can also cause premature dental wear and jaw-related other problems. Fortunately, the treatment for bruxism is relatively simple. You should visit with your dentist and see if a nightguard is an option for you.

Nightguards are simple medical tools that help protect your teeth while you sleep at night. There are several different types of nightguards that are available. It is essential to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each type so that you can make the best decision for yourself to treat bruxism and maintain your dental health.

The simplest and most inexpensive nightguard is simply a plastic or soft material that is designed to cover your upper teeth. They come in a few different sizes, and you simply place it in your mouth at night. This nightguard does not offer any customization.

This means that they often result in a poor fit that can be uncomfortable and difficult for patients to tolerate at night. They can also interfere with your ability to speak and breathe while you sleep.

Another type of nightguard is also readily available is a boil and bite style. This nightguard is made from a soft thermoplastic material. This material is designed to be placed in hot water and then the patient bites onto the plastic. As they bite down, they also press the mouthguard tightly against their teeth. As the plastic cools, it takes on the shape of the teeth and gums. This offers a better fit than a standard nightguard, but they can still be bulky and affect speech or breathing patterns.

The final type of nightguard is a custom nightguard. A custom nightguard is created specifically for each patient. A mold of the teeth is taken, and then a laboratory prepares the nightguard for you. These nightguards are thinner and are the best fit for your mouth. They should not affect your ability to breathe and have the least impact on your speech.

If you think a custom nightguard might be your best option, schedule an appointment with your dentisttoday.

Why You Shouldn’t Use a Sports Mouth Guard

One important distinction to make is that between a mouth guard and a nightguard is the overall coverage. Mouth guards that are used for athletic applications are designed to protect the entire tooth and the junction of the tooth with the jawline. This means that the coverage of a mouthguard also includes the gumline.

Additionally, mouthguards are intended to be used for shorter periods of time while we are active and awake. The additional coverage that a mouthguard provides is great for athletics, but when you sleep in a mouthguard, it can easily cause irritation to the gums. It also allows for the incubation of bacteria on the gum lines for the entire time you sleep.

A variety of people uses dental mouthguards for many different reasons. Whether you are an athlete involved in impact sports or wake up in the morning with an aching jaw, there are options out there that might be right for you. It is essential to understand the types of mouthguards and their applications before you use one to make sure that you get the right equipment for the job.

Types of Mouthguards

There are three basic types of mouthguards. While all have the same basic idea – to protect your teeth – there are some differences between them that you should understand.

Stock Mouth Protectors – These pieces of equipment come from the store ready to wear. They come in different sizes to try to get the closest to your mouth shape for a comfortable fit. However, there isn’t much adjustment that can be done with these mouthguards and their inexpensive price ends up costing you in comfort, ability to breathe properly and make speaking difficult. These protectors can be found in most sporting goods stores but are not recommended by dentists.

Boil and Bite Mouth Protectors – These protectors are slightly more customizable than the stock guards. They are found in most sporting goods stores and come in a few different sizes. They are made from a thermoplastic material that allows them to be boiled and then the individual bites down on them to give them their shape. They fit more tightly to the teeth than the stock mouthguards, but many people still find that their fit is not ideal.

Custom Fitted Mouth Protectors – These devices are the best fitting of all three types. They are individually designed and constructed for each patient. These mouthguards are created by making an impression of your teeth and then creating the mouthguard based on your exact bite and tooth pattern. Due to the increased personalization, these mouthguards are typically the most expensive of all three, but also offer the most comfortable fit and the best protection.

Mouthguards are typically only designed to fit on the top teeth. Usually, protection on the top teeth also keeps you from being able to grind or harm your lower teeth. In some situations, your dentist may also design a mouthguard for your lower teeth. These are often used for patients who have braces or other dental appliances and require additional protection. You should work closely with your dentist to identify which option is best for you.

When you receive your mouthguard(s), you should be sure to check their fit. A mouthguard should be placed easily, be comfortable to wear, and shouldn’t restrict your breathing or speech. In addition, mouthguards should be tear resistant, easy to clean and durable.

Patients Who Need Mouthguards

Mouthguards are not appropriate for every person, but dentists see too many patients who should be using mouthguards but are not. It is essential to understand when you should consider using a mouthguard. Children or adults who are involved in sports like football, hockey, boxing, soccer, basketball, lacrosse, field hockey, skiing, gymnastics, skateboarding or other sports should seriously consider mouthguards.

Finding a new dentist can be a complicated process. After researching dentists near you, making sure that they accept your insurance, getting estimates for your exam, and reading all their reviews, we often forget about the entire point of that initial appointment. Your first appointment helps to establish you as a patient for that office and gets you familiar with a new staff and their general procedures. Your new dentist will likely want to complete an initial screening, review your medical history, and conduct an exam. Part of this exam generally includes a cleaning and x-rays.

The Cleaning

The cleaning is often one of the most dreaded parts of a patient’s dental visit. However, if you understand a little bit more about it, then you may find that there isn’t anything to be concerned about and you’ll also realize the importance of getting a regular cleaning.

A tooth cleaning is broken down by dental hygienists into six different parts. We’ll discuss each and give a brief description of what they include.

A Physical Exam – Before your hygienist starts to do anything to your teeth, they conduct a physical exam. They use a small mirror to look for any immediate issues. This includes gingivitis, significant plaque buildup, and noticeable tooth loss or damage.

Remove Tartar and Plaque – Your hygienist will then use the small mirror and a scraper tool (scaler) in order to remove some of the loose buildup of tartar and plaque. You’ll generally hear the scraping sound, but this is not an uncomfortable process. The more accumulation that is on your teeth, the longer this process may take.

Gritty Toothpaste Cleaning – In a professional medical setting, a gritty toothpaste is safe to use twice a year. If you try to do the same procedure at home though, you risk damaging the enamel of your teeth. Your hygienist will use a special electrical toothbrush and professional cleaning toothpaste in order to clean and polish your teeth.

Expert Flossing – As your hygienist completes your flossing, they are looking for any spots that may be susceptible to bleeding on the gums and making sure to remove any of the buildup that was left behind from brushing.

Rinse – Now that your teeth have been cleaned and polished and most of the debris has been manually removed, the rinse helps to remove all the fine plaque or buildup that didn’t come out before. The rinse helps to ensure that your mouth is as clean as possible.

Fluoride Treatment – Fluoride treatments help to add a protective layer to your teeth to continue to protect them and keep them cavity free. Fluoride hardens when it contacts saliva, so you can consume food and drink immediately after your appointment.

X-Rays

The second part of your initial dental appointment will often include X-rays. X-rays use a low level of radiation that helps to capture images of the inside of your teeth.

These images are helpful in determining any problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye. X-rays can aid your dentist in diagnosing cavities, tooth decay or impacted teeth.

Cavities! It’s a word that we all dread when we go to the dentist. Understanding a little more about the causes of cavities and how they are treated may help to alleviate some of this fear.

Cavities are caused by the destruction or weakening of your tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the hard covering over the tooth that helps to protect the underlying bone and interior of the tooth.

Cavities can occur in children, teenagers, and adults, so it’s important to maintain as much of your enamel as possible.

As you eat and drink foods that contain sugars throughout the day, a sticky residue builds up on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky form of bacteria that are then attracted to the sugars on your teeth. As thebacteria grows on your teeth, they excrete an acid that can deteriorate the tooth’s enamel. Over time, the enamel begins to break down. This breakdown is what creates a cavity.

Cavities occur more frequently in children but can become an increasing concern with age as well. As the gums recede, it exposes weaker portions of the teeth that are more susceptible to cavities. Gumrecession can also expose the roots of the tooth. Any damage to the root may lead to tooth loss.

Cavities also form in older adults around fillings or dental work. This can be because the tooth has lost the amount of enamel that younger individuals have but may also be attributed to the lack of modern dental work. Older dental work typically doesn’t hold well around the edges and exposes the underlying tooth to damage and decay.

Treating Cavities

When the enamel of the tooth has become too weak, small holes will start to develop in the actual tooth. If this is the case, your dentist must fix the problem or else it will become worse. It is likely thatyour dentist will recommend a filling.

Fillings are placed when dentists remove all the damaged tooth and other material from the small hole. They must then fill the hole with a substance to block any future damage to that part of the tooth. Fillings are made with resins or a combination of materials to protect the tooth.

Avoiding Cavities

There are some simple tricks that people can use to avoid or lessen the amount and severity of cavities that they get over the course of their lives.

Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste – Brushing twice a day helps to remove the buildup of sugars and bacteria on your teeth. Toothpastes that contain fluoride help to maintain the tooth’s natural enamel.

Clean between your teeth every day – The use of floss or an interdental cleaner can help to remove food or sugars that get caught between the teeth, and that may not be removed from brushing.

Ask your dentist about supplemental fluoride – Many municipal water supplies are treated with fluoride to help the entire population’s dental health. However, if you don’t live in one of these areas or you have issues with cavities, you should ask your dentist about adding supplemental fluoride to your health plan.

A smile is one of the simplest gestures that we can make, but it can also be one of the biggest. A bright smile is considered a reflection of friendliness, honestly, happiness and health.

An attractive smile can be beneficial in social situations, help attract a partner and also make you more confident and outgoing. We are bombarded with pictures of celebrities flashing mega-watt grins, which unfortunatelymakes many people feel self-conscious about their own smile. These people often try and smile without showing their teeth which can look unnatural and forced.

The enamel covering the teeth can become stained over time for a number of reasons, and as such, teeth whitening is considered to be one of the easiest and most economical ways of enhancing the appeal of your smile.

Reasons for tooth discoloration

White teeth are universally considered more youthful largely due to the fact that infant/first teeth are almost always whiter than their adult counterparts.

Adult teeth can become stained or discolored for a number of reasons including:

Smoking – one of the biggest contributors to yellowed teeth!

Use of antibiotics as a child/teenager

Exposure to high levels of fluoride

Food/drink containing tannins such as oranges,carrots, red wine and coffee

Trauma to the tooth

Decay

Damage to nerve or blood vessels inside the root canal

Genetics – the thickness of the enamel covering your teeth is usually determined by genetics. Thinner enamel can often show the color of the dentin beneath it, giving the tooth a darker appearance.

Ageing – our teeth naturally darken as we get older

Can’t I just use an over-the-counter teeth whitener?

There are dozens of products on the market that claim to be able to improve the whiteness of your smile without the need for you to visit your dentist. However over the counter products are simply not able to provide the same strength of whitening as professional-grade treatments that your dentist is able to offer.Not only are the results usually only mediocre, but they also fade quicker and as such require regular treatments.

We highly recommend that you have the first treatment at the very least performed by a dentist who is qualified in providing successful teeth whitening procedures.

The in-office whitening procedure

Dental whitening is a painless procedure, but one that may require several visits to your dentist in order to achieve the final color that you are aiming for. During your consultation visit your dentist will likely photograph your teeth to provide a starting point for comparison so that he/she can effectively monitor the progress of your treatment. Your dentist will perform a thorough examination to ensure that no other treatment is required ahead of the whitening process, and may ask you a number of questions to get to the cause of the discoloration.

Next your dentist or dental hygienist will give your teeth a thorough clean to remove any residue or bacteria that may prevent the whitening process from working properly.

After this, it is time for the whitening to begin. There are two main types of tooth whitening performed.

Many dental patients are looking for ways to improve the appearance of their teeth and smile. In response, many dentists have started to offer smile makeover services. These treatment plans are individualized based on every patient’s personal needs. Smile makeovers can include a variety of treatment options including.

Dental veneers

Composite bonding

Tooth implants

Teeth whitening

Many patients that are considering any of these options may want to talk to their dentist about a complete smile makeover. Many dentists can offer overall cost savings when these procedures are grouped into a single treatment plan.

Considerations

Patients consider smile makeovers for a variety of reasons. It is important to consider what your desired outcome is. It’s also wise to recognize the things that you appreciate about your smile and make sure that you communicate these things with your dentist.

Your dentist will consider a variety of topics when developing your treatment plan. Some of the things that they consider are your natural skin color, face shape, hair color, tooth factors (shape, length, width, and color), and your lip shape and color.

There are several potential issues that your dentist will be able to help with, and it is important to understand what they can do and what their limitations are.

Color – many patients aren’t happy with the whiteness of their teeth. Over time teeth can become stained or discolored. This can be due to dental hygiene, dietary factors, tobacco use, or enamel thickness. Your dentist has a variety of options at their disposal in order to brighten your teeth to a brighter shade of white.

Alignment or Spacing – teeth that are unevenly spaced or crooked are a common issue that many people face. You can work with your dentist to identify options to straighten teeth and correct their spacing. Invisalign or orthodontics are two possibilities that are frequently used.

Missing Teeth – Many patients feel self-conscious due to a lack of teeth. Patients have missing teeth for a variety of reasons, and your dentist is well-versed on the possibilities to replace missing teeth with dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures.

Balance and Overall Aesthetics – When patients have cracked or uneven teeth, dental work is an option to help restore and improve the overall appearance of your smile. Dentists even have the option to help recontour an overly gummy smile.

Fuller Cheeks or Lips – There are some cosmetic surgery options that can help restore your smile to a more youthful appearance. Some of these possibilities include orthodontics or maxillofacial surgeries. You can discuss your options with your dentist.

In addition to the previous procedures, there are a number of aesthetic components that will weigh into your smile makeover treatment plan.

Orthodontic treatment is a specialist type of dental treatment that addresses teeth and jaws that are incorrectly positioned. Many people have not been blessed with naturally perfectly aligned teeth and the number of referrals for orthodontic treatment are growing year on year.

You could be forgiven for thinking that correctly positioned teeth were primarily a cosmetic concern. However, crooked teeth and misaligned bites can create a whole variety of health problems including head, shoulder, neck and jaw pain, not to mention a risk of early tooth decay due to them beingparticularly hard to keep clean. Therefore, orthodontic treatment is aninvestment in the future of your oral health, giving you a healthier mouth and more confident smile.

Problems that can be overcome with orthodontic treatment Your dentist may recommend you for orthodontic treatment if:

Your teeth do not sufficiently fill your mouth,leaving you with lots of gaps.

You have too many teeth trying to fit onto the dental ridge.

You have an overbite – where the top teeth stick out over the bottom teeth when biting together.

You have an under-bite – where the bottom teeth sit further forward than the top teeth when biting together.

You have an open bite – where there are spaces between the surfaces of your teeth when biting together.

You have a cross-bite – where the upper teeth fail to come down just in front of the lower teeth when biting together.

The center line of your top teeth fails to fall in line with the center of your bottom teeth.

What types of orthodontic treatment are available?

During your initial consultation with your orthodontic specialist you will discuss which type of orthodontic treatment is right for you based on your specific needs. Sometimes more than one type of treatment is needed.

Laser therapy is a relatively new innovation that is currently being used across a number of medical and cosmetic surgery fields including optometry, dermatology, pain management and beauty therapy. Although laser therapy has been used in dentistry since 1994, it is only more recently that this innovative approach to dental treatment has really gained momentum.

Despite being approved by the FDA, as yet no laser system has received the American Dental Association’s (ADA’s) Seal of Acceptance as an alternative to mainstream treatment. However, many dentists are using laser therapy very successfully to treat a variety of dental issues.

Teeth Whitening

By far the most common dental procedure that uses laser technology is cosmetic teeth whitening. Teeth whitening is the number one cosmetic dental procedure in the U.S. because it is a quick, painless method of correcting discolored teeth and provides patients with a significantly brighter smile.

This can give the wearer increased confidence in personal, professional and social situations. In fact, many people consider a great smile to be able to seriously influence your success in life.

One of the biggest benefits of laser teeth whitening is the speed with which you can both have the procedure undertaken and see the results. Typically, you can expect a laser teeth whitening session to be completed in under 90minutes, making it easy to fit into even the busiest of schedules. Better still, the majority of patients find that one treatment is enough to significantly brighten their teeth for a period of time. That said, no whitening treatment lasts forever.

The length of time you can expect your teeth to maintain their whiteness will depend on several factors including your oral healthcare routine, using complementary whitening products such as toothpastes and mouthwashes with whitening ingredients, and how willing you are to try and avoid food and drink that are likely to cause staining, such as coffee and red wine. Many patients who choose laser teeth whitening schedule annual or even 6 monthly treatments in order to keep up the appearance of their smile.

Laser teeth whitening is considered a cosmetic treatment and as such, very few dental insurance policies will cover this procedure. However, many dentists offer affordable payment plans that may be of assistance to you.

The exact price that you will pay will vary depending on your dentist and the extent of the discoloration of your teeth, but you can expect to pay around $1,000 for the procedure.

Patients that have been making routine visits to their dentist are all too familiar with the traditional X-ray imaging that is employed at almost all dental offices. However, there is a breakthrough technology that offers better imaging and improved patient outcomes.

How it Works

3-D imaging for your teeth uses a technology called CBCT or Cone Beam Computed Tomography. This technology can use targeted beam limitation which can reduce the exposure to radiation employed by typical X-ray imaging. It has an improved accuracy and image quality over traditional images and better bone quality assessment. All these factors lead to a complete picture for your dentist to base your treatment upon.

Main Advantages of 3-D Imaging

Utilizing this new technology results in several overall benefits for the patient and their care provider.

Ability to create hundreds of images from a single scan

Control over the quality of the image

Technology passes easily through the lips and gums.

Overall reduction in radiation exposure

Ability to zoom in on small areas on a single tooth or group of teeth.

How the Technology is Used

Using 3-D imaging has been an overall improvement in several areas for dentistry, but some areas utilize the technology more than others.

Cosmetic/Restorative Work – This type of work includes crowns, veneers, inlays and onlays, bone grafts, root canals, and implants. 3-D technology can help this process by helping to prepare the patient and care provider for more advanced treatments. The dentist has the better ability to plan for procedures with advanced knowledge of any difficulties that they may encounter.

Orthodontic – 3-D imaging creates an overall image that helps to address concerns in advance of treatment and can monitor ove rall progress.

Implants – This imaging is so accurate that it can help reduce the number of fittings to a single appointment. It helps to determine the correct location for the placement of dental implants.

The Future of Care

The benefits of 3-D imaging are quickly becoming apparent to dental offices everywhere. Many dentists can see the advantages of purchasing the machinery and are making sure that their patients have the highest level of care. If you are looking for the best imaging and care, ask your dentist today if they have the capabilities for 3-D imaging. If they don’t, ask them if they expect to be gaining that ability in the future and discuss the benefits for your care.

3-D imaging allows you and your dentist to see your dental health in a way that you never thought possible. This approach enables your dentist to view your teeth and skull and to be able to identify any